Stoicism Is Not Compatible With Your Religion

May 28, 2024

The podcast explores the differences between Stoicism and Abrahamic religions, highlighting contrasting beliefs about the nature of God. It discusses the incompatibility of identifying as both a Stoic and a follower of an Abrahamic religion due to conflicting foundational beliefs. The episode delves into the intellectual rigor behind both systems and the challenges of mixing different philosophies or religions.

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INSIGHT

Stoicism vs. Religion

Stoicism and Abrahamic religions are incompatible due to fundamental differences in their views on God and morality.
Religions personify God and base ethics on divine approval, while Stoicism views God as an impersonal natural force.

INSIGHT

Partial Adoption vs. Full Conversion

One can adopt Stoic practices without converting, much like appreciating elements of another religion without joining it.
Identifying as both a Stoic and a follower of an Abrahamic religion creates inherent contradictions.

INSIGHT

Criteria for Stoic Identity

Identifying as a Stoic requires fulfilling specific criteria, like any religion.
Stoicism and religions differ fundamentally; religions view God as supernatural, while Stoicism sees God as the cosmos.

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In this episode, I explore the fundamental differences between Stoicism and Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam), explaining why these systems are inherently incompatible. Religions personify God and base their moral frameworks on divine approval, while Stoicism views God as a natural, impersonal force synonymous with Nature itself.

I discuss how one can adopt certain Stoic practices without fully embracing Stoicism, similar to appreciating elements of another religion without converting to it. However, identifying as both a Stoic and a follower of an Abrahamic religion is as contradictory as claiming to be a Christian Muslim due to the conflicting foundational beliefs. For instance, Christianity's belief in Jesus as the son of God starkly contrasts with Islam's view of Jesus as a prophet.

Identifying as a Stoic involves satisfying specific criteria unique to Stoicism, just as identifying with a religion requires adherence to its distinct beliefs and practices. Religions posit a supernatural, purposeful God whose word is conveyed through scriptures, while Stoicism sees God as the cosmos, emphasizing living in harmony with Nature's rational order.

I address the intellectual rigor behind both religions and Stoicism, acknowledging the profound efforts of their founders to answer life's big questions. Mixing different philosophies or religions often results in new, distinct systems rather than a harmonious blend. Even attempts like Neostoicism, which sought to merge Stoicism with Christianity, have largely failed.

Despite these differences, both systems ask fundamental questions about living a virtuous life. However, the answers and methods proposed by each are often mutually exclusive. While individual Stoic teachings can resonate with religious adherents, the underlying cosmology and logic of Stoicism remain incompatible with theistic frameworks.

I caution religious listeners about the potential challenges of exploring Stoicism deeply, as it may lead to difficult questions about their faith and identity. Embracing such philosophical inquiries, however, is part of the journey toward understanding and personal growth.

In this episode, I explore these complex intersections between Stoicism and religion and provide insights into how different systems approach the quest for a virtuous life.